Are There Different Types of Annular Tears?

Spine Conditions

Surgeon describes differences in types of annular tears

You might be surprised to hear that we see a lot of patients who did not even realize they had an annular tear. Why? Because there are many different types of tears that can occur.

It’s not unusual for annular tears to heal on their own. This is one reason why many people don’t realize they’ve had one before or simply thought it was a more common back pain problem. 

On some occasions an annular tear may cause pain or disc damage which typically only occurs if the damaged disc touches a nerve root.

If you believe you have an annular tear, consulting a physician is important in order to determine the source of the pain. Through an MRI, our Board Certified Spine Surgeons will be able to see if you have an annular tear or a damaged disc. The symptoms along with the MRI scan will determine the location of the tear.

Types of Annular Tears by location:

Types of Annular Tears

  • Peripheral Tears – An injury such as a fall or car accident is the most common cause of this type of annular tear. These tears begin on the outside layer of the discs that surround the disc.
  • Concentric Tears – An annular tear that has the layers of the annulus fibrosus separate entirely or partially.
  • Radial Tears – This type of tear is typically due to the normal aging process. These tears can cause disc herniations or bulges.

Causes of Annular Tears

The spine supports most of your body weight therefore wear and tear can happen very easily. As we get older, our discs get prone to being damaged by it becoming less flexible and more brittle. There are also other factors to consider that can cause an annular tear.

  • Your job that requires you to do certain tasks with your body repetitively
  • Bad posture when lifting
  • Working on a computer all day and staying stagnant in one position or working with two computer screens and moving your neck back and forth all day
  • Body weight
  • Injuries such as a fall or car accident

One of the most common causes of an Annular Tear is the gradual degeneration of the disc due to age. This is most commonly known as Degenerative Disc Disease. 

Florida Surgery Consultants

Conservative treatment is recommended for treatment of annular tears such as pain medications, anti-inflammatory  medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and epidural steroid injections. Minimally Invasive Procedures are sometimes Complex procedures may be needed if pain symptoms still persist after finishing conservative methods of therapy.

Contact Florida Surgery Consultants if you have any questions about which procedures we have to offer or simply want to schedule a consultation with one of our Board Certified Neurosurgeons. Our top rated Neurosurgeons have performed thousands of procedures and have helped thousands more find the answers to the questions they may have. All of our procedures are done in an outpatient facility and the recovery times are quick.